11 "Faux Pas" That Are Actually OK To Create Using Your Window Repairs Window Repairs Can Save Homeowners Time and Money

Window repairs can save homeowners time and money. Sometimes, replacing old windows can be more cost-effective.

Cracks or holes in the glass of windows are often caused by stray baseballs or projectiles. With the proper tools, these are easy solutions.

If the window's frame is beginning to decay it's recommended to replace the entire unit.

Broken or cracked glass

A storm that is severe, the pebble from your lawnmowers or the vase you set down too hard may break the glass of your windows. Fortunately just a little time and effort can stop the cracks from getting any worse and reduce the expense of replacing glass.

The first step in any repair is to take off the glass that is broken. Wearing gloves, carefully cut off any molding, trim or glazing putty holding the glass in the frame. It is also possible to use a utility knife in order to break loose any glass shards stuck in the frame or old glazing.

After removing the window clean the surrounding area and the surface thoroughly. This will prevent the adhesive that is used to glue the new glass in place from spilling out and causing damage. It is also important to ensure that the glass you've purchased is a perfect fit. If the new glass is larger than the previous one, you'll need to reduce it using circular saw or miter saw.

After your surface has been cleaned then you can apply a glass adhesive made specifically for windows. Install Repair My Windows And Doors into your window sash. Be careful not to bend or move the glass during this procedure; it can cause the crack to get deeper.

You can also use products like Loctite Super Glue Glass, which will fill the crack and seal it. It is designed to work on all kinds of glass including tinted ones. Be aware that this type of repair will not fully cover the crack, therefore it's not a suitable choice for windows that are easily visible from the outside.

Epoxy is a different option. It's more time-consuming, however it provides the best seal and makes your cracked glass almost invisible. It is important to thoroughly clean the glass and its surrounding area prior to applying epoxy. You'll also need to be ready to address any sudden weather changes that might cause the crack to widen again. If you're not comfortable with these DIY repair techniques, or your cracked glass is especially large or double-paned, it's best to get in touch with a professional for a professional repair.

Sashes that won't let you open

A window that doesn't stay up isn't simply a nuisance. It can also be a danger. Double-hung and single-hung windows have balancing mechanisms that assist in stopping the sash from moving upwards and down within the jambs. However one or several of these mechanisms may become disconnected or damaged. Check the pivot bar and balance shoes to determine whether either of them has dislodged. If they have, you'll have to replace them in order for the sash to remain in place.


The moisture in window frames of the sash can cause cycles of contraction or expansion. This can cause the frame joints to loosen over time and stick. You can repair this problem without removing the window if you use a blade to cut the frame joints apart. If your wood appears swollen it's typically due to the absence of flashing on the exterior of your house which allows water to enter the frame.

A sash cable that has snapped is another reason for windows that aren't opening. You can try to re-attach the cord by pulling it back (pliers could help) and sliding the sash back to its original position. If the cord snapped completely, you'll have to replace it.

Paint can also cause a window to bind and be difficult to move. If the sash channel on double-hung windows has been painted shut, you may be capable of breaking the bond using a utility blade and sliding it. If this doesn't work, you will need to remove the sash and then cut the gap between the sash and stop, parting strip or jamb on both sides of the window (Photo 1).

Sash shoes for single-hung windows may be made of plastic or metal. They feature a U shape slot that is locked when the shoe is in its normal position inside the sash. To unlock the shoe, using a screwdriver, turn the slot sideways by following the image 2. You can then move the sash back forward to determine whether it is working correctly.

Rotting Wood

Wood rot isn't just ugly and aesthetically pleasing, it is a serious threat to the structural integrity of the area of the house it's infiltrating. The fungus responsible for it to thrive on moisture, transforming wooden beams, joists and walls into a soggy and mush. To avoid rot, you should ensure that your home is properly maintained and the areas that are exposed to the elements are secured. Unfortunately, even the best of intentions just one mishap with the painting process, clogged gutter or a minor roof leak to expose the window frames or porch columns, as well as other areas of your home to a myriad of decay organisms that can quickly eat away at the structure and compromise its stability.

Most wood decay is the result of excessive moisture content, which can be caused by condensation, rainwater seepage or rising dampness. This can happen if a damp proof course isn't installed or is damaged or if internal materials such as plaster and drywall are impacted by leaky pipes, appliances or fixtures.

The first step in repairing decay is to remove the old material. This is typically done using a prybar, although the combination of hammer and chisel is sometimes needed for the most difficult areas. After the rotten pieces wood are removed, the gap must be filled in and sealed. There are many wood fillers available, and the best product will depend on the amount of work you'd like to complete, the depth of the hole is and how much of the original frame can be saved.

If the rot is too extensive for a filler that is simple, then you'll have to replace the damaged area. This can be done either by hiring a professional or doing it yourself. This is a more complicated project that requires a carpentry expert to complete. If you're unsure of your ability to do this yourself, then it's best to call in an expert.

While repairing wood that has rotted is always a possibility however, it's much more effective (and cheaper) to prevent it from happening in the first place. The best preventative measures are to seal cracks around windows scraping and repainting caulk and installing a drip edge on the roof to stop water from splattering onto exterior trim. You should also look for signs of humidity around your windows and consider a dehumidifier in order to keep the humidity levels under control.

Dirty Seals

The most obvious sign of shrinking window seals is water that drips from or under a window. Sometimes, this is easy to detect, but often it is hidden behind a wall, and harder to find. This can result in soft wood, mold and even structural damage in your RV. The best way to safeguard your windows is to keep them clean by performing regular inspection and cleaning. You can find soft spots by gently pressing on the seal trim while looking.

Windows that are stained with fog are another indication of a leaky seal. They might not be structurally damaging, or cause your electric bills to skyrocket, but they do detract from the aesthetics of your RV.

The weather is the main factor in the failure of window seals. In hot temperatures, seals expand, whereas in colder weather, they shrink. This can be mitigated by storing your camper underneath cover and keeping it away from the direct sunlight. A simple car wash can help to keep the salt from damaging the rubber seals on your windows.

Another factor that can cause sealing failure is rubbing seals using brushes or washrags with cleaning chemicals that break down the rubber. Seals can become brittle, and more susceptible to cracking. The best way to avoid this is to avoid using harsh cleaners on your windows, and to keep the sash tracks and window seals clean using a dry brush.

This is the simplest and cheapest way to protect the windows of your RV. This will also give you the opportunity to check the seals on your windows and make any necessary repairs.

Lubricating your window seals by spraying 303 Protectant replaced is a much more expensive repair than simply resealing the sash, but it's nevertheless much cheaper than repairing the water damage that is caused by failed seals. This is a simple DIY project that can extend the lifespan of your windows in your RV and save you money.